ISO 20982:2020

Overview

ISO 20982:2020 sets forth international specifications and test methods for priests (caper) buds derived from Capparis spp., specifically Capparis spinosa and Capparis ovata. This standard ensures quality, safety, and consistency for caper buds used primarily in culinary applications worldwide, particularly around the Mediterranean region. It covers classification, requirements for product quality, testing procedures, packaging, storage, and hygiene practices. The standard supports producers, exporters, and regulators by providing a clear framework for the evaluation and handling of caper buds.

Key Topics

• Scope and Definition
  Defines priests (caper) as the unopened flower buds harvested before blooming from Capparis shrubs. Details the botanical background and harvesting practices.

• Classification and Quality Requirements
  Divides caper buds into six classes (Extra class, Class I to Class IV, and outside the class) based on size and quality. Provides general requirements such as cleanliness, absence of abnormal moisture, foreign taste or smell, and the exclusion of rotten buds.

• Tolerances
  Specifies allowable tolerances in quality and size for each class category, facilitating fair grading and acceptance limits.

• Sampling
  Defines sampling protocols compliant with ISO 874 and ISO 2859-1 to ensure representative, undamaged test samples.

• Test Methods
  Includes test methods to evaluate titratable acidity, water-insoluble solids, mineral impurities content, pH, and soluble solids content based on referenced ISO standards (ISO 750, ISO 751, ISO 762, ISO 1842, ISO 2173).

• Packaging and Marking
  Details packaging requirements to protect caper buds during shipment. Mandates clear product labelling including product name, producer details, batch number, product class, country of origin, expiry date, and other purchaser requirements.

• Storage and Transportation
  Recommends optimum storage and transport conditions at temperatures between +10 °C and +15 °C with relative humidity of 80%-90%. Emphasizes minimizing storage time to preserve product freshness with proper air circulation and refrigeration.

• Hygiene, Contaminants, and Pesticides
  Advises adherence to international food hygiene codes (CAC/RCP 1-1969) and compliance with Codex standards for contaminants and pesticide residues.

Applications

ISO 20982:2020 is essential for:

• Producers and Growers
  To ensure caper buds meet internationally recognized quality specifications, supporting market access and export compliance.

• Quality Control Laboratories
  For conducting standardized tests ensuring the safety and quality of caper buds offered in commerce.

• Packaging and Logistics
  To maintain caper freshness and prevent damage during storage and transit, applying recommended packaging and temperature controls.

• Importers, Exporters, and Retailers
  Providing confidence in product classification, quality, and food safety compliance as per global marketplace requirements.

• Regulatory Authorities
  Guiding inspections, conformity assessments, and trade regulations related to capers and associated products.

Related Standards

• ISO 874 – Sampling fresh fruits and vegetables
• ISO 2859-1 – Sampling procedures indexed by acceptance quality limit (AQL)
• ISO 750 – Determination of titratable acidity for fruit and vegetable products
• ISO 751 – Determination of water-insoluble solids in fruit and vegetable products
• ISO 762 – Determination of mineral impurities content
• ISO 1842 – Determination of pH in fruit and vegetable products
• ISO 2173 – Determination of soluble solids by refractometric method
• ISO 2169 – Physical conditions in cold stores for fruits and vegetables
• CAC/RCP 1-1969 – General Principles of Food Hygiene by Codex Alimentarius
• CODEX STAN 193-1995 – General Standard for Contaminants and Toxins in Food and Feed

By aligning with these standards, ISO 20982:2020 ensures comprehensive coverage of product quality, safety, and international trade requirements for priests (caper) buds.